Masai Mara & Gorilla Adventure

Masai Mara & Gorilla Adventure

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12 Days From

$6599

Masai Mara & Gorilla Adventure

12 Days Starting in Nairobi and ending in Kigali

Visiting: Nairobi, Masai Mara, Kampala, Kibale National Park, Queen Elizabeth National Park, Bwindi Impenetrable National Park

Tour operator:

G Adventures

Tour code:

25373

Guide Type:

Fully Guided

Physical rating:

4 - Demanding

Age range:

Minimum age of 15 years for this trip.

Special diets catered:

Vegetarians, Vegans

Tour operated in:

English

Trip Styles:

Safari Tours, Small Group

From: $6599

NB: Prices correct on 22-Dec-2024 but subject to change.

Tour Overview

An epic adventure awaits you on this 12-day tour through Kenya, Uganda, and Rwanda. In the Masai Mara, you'll embark on incredible wildlife safari drives to spot big cats (cheetahs, leopards, and lions) with opportunities to visit a Masai village and learn about this nomadic culture. Visiting G Adventures for Good projects like the Nyamirambo Women's Centre and the Amani Ya Juu gives you a grounded, well-rounded understanding of what makes this slice of the continent so special.

Highlights

  • Explore the Masai Mara National Reserve, view diverse wildlife in search of the "big five", spend two nights in a safari camp, admire a family of mountain gorillas in their natural habitat, trek to see chimpanzees in Uganda, keep your eyes peeled for the plentiful elephant and hippo populations in Queen Elizabeth National Park

Itinerary

Expand All

Day 1: Nairobi

Location: Nairobi

Accommodation: Hotel Boulevard

Accommodation Name: The Heron Portico

Arrive at any time.

There are no planned activities until an evening welcome meeting.

ACTIVITY: Your opportunity to meet your CEO and fellow travellers, and learn more about your tour. Opt to join the group for a local meal afterwards. Don't forget to see the notice in the lobby (or ask reception) for the official time and place to meet up with the group.

Day 2: Nairobi/Masai Mara

Location: Nairobi

Accommodation: Kenia Campsite

Accommodation Name: Kenia Campsite

Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Journey through the Great Rift Valley on the way to one of the most famous national parks in Africa. Enjoy a late afternoon wildlife safari drive in the hopes of spotting the "big five".

Travel from Nairobi, through the Great Rift Valley on to Kenya's premier wildlife reserve. In the afternoon, arrive in the area and get settled at the safari camp, our base for our time here.



Head out for a late afternoon wildlife safari drive with excellent chances of seeing the "big five" — watch for lion, cheetah, buffalo, elephant and giraffe. The varied wildlife and natural environment come together to provide a spectacular safari experience.

TRANSPORT: Get a better view and take better snapshots aboard this off-road ride.

ACTIVITY: EVENING Maasai Mara is one of the world’s top safari destinations, known for its abundance of big cats – cheetahs, leopards and lions – as well as the two million wildebeest, Thomson’s gazelles and zebra that migrate annually across the vast grasslands in search of water. Set off on safari with our driver/guide and keep your eyes and ears peeled for movement and memories. Watch elephants and giraffe grazing, photograph zebras and wildebeest and, with a little luck, you'll even spot animals feasting on a recent kill.

Day 3: Masai Mara

Location: Masai Mara

Accommodation: Kenia Campsite

Accommodation Name: Kenia Campsite

Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Enjoy an early wildlife safari drive when animals are most active. Opt to visit a Masai village, learn to dance like a warrior, stop in the manyatta (family compound) and learn about this nomadic culture.

Opt to go for a balloon safari for a new perspective over the beautiful landscape. Pre-book on the checkout page to include this optional activity on your tour or ask your GCO or travel agent for assistance.

ACTIVITY: MORNING Maasai Mara is one of the world’s top safari destinations, known for its abundance of big cats – cheetahs, leopards and lions – as well as the two million wildebeest, Thomson’s gazelles and zebra that migrate annually across the vast grasslands in search of water. Set off on safari with our driver/guide and keep your eyes and ears peeled for movement and memories. Watch elephants and giraffe grazing, photograph zebras and wildebeest and, with a little luck, you'll even spot animals feasting on a recent kill.

FREE TIME: AFTERNOON Explore the area with some free time.

Day 4: Masai Mara/Nairobi

Location: Masai Mara

Accommodation: Hotel Boulevard

Accommodation Name: The Heron Portico

Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch

Enjoy a final wildlife safari drive before the journey back to Nairobi.

Enjoy one more safari drive in the Masai Mara.



Visit the G for Good supported Amani Ya Juu for lunch.



In Nairobi there's some time to buy local handicrafts or check out a bit of the city.

ACTIVITY: Maasai Mara is one of the world’s top safari destinations, known for its abundance of big cats – cheetahs, leopards and lions – as well as the two million wildebeest, Thomson’s gazelles and zebra that migrate annually across the vast grasslands in search of water. Set off on safari with our driver/guide and keep your eyes and ears peeled for movement and memories. Watch elephants and giraffe grazing, photograph zebras and wildebeest and, with a little luck, you'll even spot animals feasting on a recent kill.

TRANSPORT: Get a better view and take better snapshots aboard this off-road ride.

ACTIVITY: In the post-colonial era of East and Southern Africa, Kenya found itself as a refuge for many women who were seeking safety. As a result, a very special G Adventures for Good supported project, Amani ya Juu, was created. Amani ya Juu serves as a community where many of these women can learn entrepreneurship and engage in fair trade activities that allow them to create opportunities for themselves and their families. By creating unique handicrafts symbolic of their cultures, the women can express themselves and receive an impactful income, leading to economic independence. Here you’ll enjoy a locally sourced lunch prepared by women and youth of the community, engage in conversation to learn of their history, and build a greater connection with this incredible program.

Day 5: Nairobi/Kampala

Location: Nairobi

Accommodation: Canary Hotel

Accommodation Name: Canary Hotel

Meals Included: Breakfast

Travel from one bustling East African capital city to another. Relax in Kampala and await the second part of this epic adventure.

ACTIVITY: You may be a seasoned pro at group travel by now, but there will likely be some new travellers joining the group. Sit in on the welcome meeting to meet the newest members of your group and learn about the next leg of your tour.

TRANSPORT: Settle in and scan the scenery from the convenience of a private vehicle.

TRANSPORT: Look! Up in the sky! It's a bird! It's a plane! It's... yup, it is a plane, actually.

Day 6: Kampala/Fort Portal

Location: Kampala

Accommodation: Kluges Guest Farm

Accommodation Name: Kluges Guest Farm

Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Take the scenic route to Fort Portal at the edge of Kibale National Park. Spend the night on a guest farm listening to the sounds of monkeys and birds.

Additional Information: Accommodation in Fort Portal is on a farm in simple furnished tents with shared bathroom facilities.

TRANSPORT: Settle in and scan the scenery from the convenience of a private vehicle.

Day 7: Kibale National Park

Location: Kibale National Park

Accommodation: Kluges Guest Farm

Accommodation Name: Kluges Guest Farm

Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Explore the evergreen rainforest and trek to spot chimps in the morning or afternoon. Enjoy a traditional lunch in the Bigodi Community.

Opt to venture deep into the wetlands to spot more wildlife on a guided walk through the Bigodi Wetlands Sanctuary.

ACTIVITY: Embark on a chimp trek with a park ranger/guide. See more than just chimpanzees in their natural environment. Learn about the ecosystem and keep an eye out for other animals. Although chimp sightings are not guaranteed, visitors stand a good chance of hearing and seeing our distant cousins as they are not bothered by humans watching their daily behaviour.

ACTIVITY: Sit down to a traditional buffet-style lunch prepared with fresh, organic local ingredients. Guests dine in a grass thatched hut and learn about Bigodi dining etiquette. Your local hosts describes how the ingredients used in the dishes are grown, harvested and prepared.

Day 8: Kibale Np/Queen Elizabeth Np

Location: Kibale National Park

Accommodation: Queen Elizabeth Bush Lodge

Accommodation Name: Queen Elizabeth Bush Lodge

Meals Included: Breakfast, Dinner

Continue on to Queen Elizabeth NP, stopping at the equator. Head out on a wildlife safari drive in the afternoon. Keep your eyes peeled for warthogs, elephants, buffalo, five different species of primates, and hippos.

Queen Elizabeth National Park is characterized by open savannah, large areas of swamp around Lake George, the extensive Maramagambo Forest in the southeast, and the forested Kyambura Gorge along the border with Kyambura Game Reserve.

Additional Information: Accommodation in Queen Elizabeth NP is in simple furnished tents with shared bathroom facilities.

TRANSPORT: Settle in and scan the scenery from the convenience of a private vehicle.

ACTIVITY: AFTERNOON Enjoy a wildlife safari drive inside Queen Elizabeth National Park. The park is home to Uganda's largest wildlife populations. Keep an eye out for buffalo, elephants, hippos, hyenas, lions, warthogs, and the elusive leopards.

Day 9: Queen Elizabeth National Park

Location: Queen Elizabeth National Park

Accommodation: Queen Elizabeth Bush Lodge

Accommodation Name: Queen Elizabeth Bush Lodge

Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Take an early morning wildlife safari drive and enjoy lunch inside the park. Opt for an evening cruise along the Kazinga Channel.

Enjoy a wildlife safari drive with possible sightings of buffaloes, waterbucks, warthogs, lions, leopards, hyenas, giant forest hogs, and elephants.

ACTIVITY: MORNING Enjoy a wildlife safari drive inside Queen Elizabeth National Park. The park is home to Uganda's largest wildlife populations. Keep an eye out for buffalo, elephants, hippos, hyenas, lions, warthogs, and the elusive leopards.

FREE TIME: AFTERNOON Don't waste a minute— start exploring.

Day 10: Queen Elizabeth Np/Bwindi Impenetrable Np

Location: Queen Elizabeth National Park

Accommodation: Rushaga Gorilla Camp

Accommodation Name: Rushaga Gorilla Camp

Meals Included: Breakfast

Enjoy the scenic drive south, with views of forests, volcanoes and lakes. Spend the night on the edge of Bwindi Impenetrable National Park.

Additional Information: Accommodation at Bwindi Impenetrable NP is in simple furnished tents
ooms with ensuite bathroom facilities.

TRANSPORT: Settle in and scan the scenery from the convenience of a private vehicle.

Day 11: Gorilla Trekking

Location: Bwindi Impenetrable National Park

Accommodation: Rushaga Gorilla Camp

Accommodation Name: Rushaga Gorilla Camp

Meals Included: Breakfast

Rise early for the tour's main highlight – gorilla trekking!

Head into Bwindi Impenetrable National Park to meet the park ranger/guide for orientation. Embark on the trek, which can vary in length and difficulty, depending on the location of the gorilla family that's being visited. Spend 1 hr (max) observing these beautiful and endangered creatures, a truly privileged experience. Trek back and return to town. Enjoy free time in the afternoon.

Additional Information: Bwindi Impenetrable National Park has four areas; Rushaga, Buhoma, Nkuringo, Ruhija. Depending on permit availability your group could be tracking gorillas from different areas of the park, it is all still part of Bwindi.

ACTIVITY: Take an unforgettable guided trek (1-6 hrs) deep into volcano forests of Bwindi Impenetrable National Park for a wildlife encounter of a lifetime, and meet a family of mountain gorillas. One of Africa's major highlights, a close encounter with these amazing animals is simply breathtaking.

Get prepared before heading out: bring plenty of water and waterproof clothing (it can rain on only a few minutes’ notice), and be sure to bring protective bags for cameras and film. Dress in layers with long sleeves and long pants to protect against stinging nettles found in the forests. The trek’s often chilly, at first, until you start trekking.

Note: Ugandan authorities are fiercely protective of this natural treasure, and currently permit only a maximum of eight people, per day, to visit a given gorilla family. The group will be split into different sub-groups for the trek, and depending on the number of travellers, different sub-groups may do their trek on different days.

Bwindi Impenetrable National Park has four areas; Rushaga, Buhoma, Nkuringo, and Ruhija. Depending on permit availability your group could be tracking gorillas from different areas of the park, it is all still part of Bwindi.

FREE TIME: AFTERNOON Depending on when you get back from your gorilla trek, you may have some time to explore more of the area.

Day 12: Bwindi/Kigali

Location: Bwindi Impenetrable National Park

Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch

Cross the border into Rwanda, then head to the capital city, Kigali. Visit the genocide museum to learn more about the dark history of this fascinating country. Enjoy lunch at the G Adventures supported Nyamirambo Women's Centre. Tour ends on arrival at hotel.

ACTIVITY: Ready for a little more ink in your passport? Grab your bags and get ready to check another country off your bucket list.

TRANSPORT: Settle in and scan the scenery from the convenience of a private vehicle.

ACTIVITY: Visit the Kigali Genocide Memorial Centre, which serves as a permanent memorial to those who fell victim to the genocide in 1994. The centre opened on the tenth anniversary of the Rwandan Genocide, in April 2004, and was built on a site where more than 250,000 people are buried.

Please note that content at the Memorial Centre shows the harsh reality of the genocide.

ACTIVITY: Located in Nyamirambo, the largest and most vibrant township in Rwanda, the centre provides women and girls from a diverse range of backgrounds, the opportunity to support each other and succeed, through education and training programs. Enjoy lunch prepared by women employed at the centre, allowing us to try local foods and popular dishes. After lunch, take some time to browse the centre's shop, which features handmade, high-quality crafts and clothes, made by some of the women at the shop, as well as other women's cooperatives throughout Rwanda. Proceeds from the meal and shop help support the centre’s education and training programs, including a community library.

ACTIVITY: Not ready to leave? Your CEO can help with travel arrangements to extend your adventure.

What's Included

  • Accommodation
    Standard hotel (3 nts), simple furnished tents/rooms (8 nts).

  • Meals
    11 breakfasts, 7 lunches, 6 dinners

  • Your G for Good Moment: Amani Ya Juu Lunch, Nairobi
    Your G for Good Moment: Nyamirambo Women's Centre, Local Lunch, Kigali
    Your Welcome Moment: Welcome Moment - Meet Your CEO and Group

  • Masai Mara National Reserve wildlife safari drives

  • Safari camping experience

  • Guest farm stay near Kibale National Park

  • Chimpanzee trek

  • Bigodi Community lunch

  • Queen Elizabeth National Park wildlife safari drives

  • Guided gorilla trekking in Bwindi Impenetrable National Park

  • Visit to Kigali Genocide Museum

  • All national park fees and trekking permits

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What's Not Included

  • Tipping and Gratuities

  • International Travel

Accommodation

Standard hotel (3 nts), simple furnished tents/rooms (8 nts).

Transport

7-seat 4x4 safari van, plane, private van, walking.

Meals Included

11 breakfasts, 7 lunches, 6 dinners

Group Size

Max 12, avg 10. The Masai Mara portion of the trip often runs at smaller group sizes and is limited to a maximum of 7.

Solo Travellers

We believe solo travellers should not have to pay more to travel so our group trips are designed for shared accommodation and do not involve a single supplement. Single travellers joining group trips are paired in twin or multi-share accommodation with someone of the same sex for the duration of the trip. Some of our Independent trips are designed differently and solo travellers on these itineraries must pay the single trip price.

Meals

Shopping for food will be done before the trip departs, fresh vegetables and fruit will be bought along the route from supermarkets, local shops and markets. Breakfasts will generally be cereals, if time allows a warm breakfast may be prepared. Lunches will be either en route, in the wildlife park, or in camp, and will be light meals such as sandwiches or salads. All evening meals will be hot and will consist of a variety of continental and local dishes. Meals will be prepared by the crew with assistance from you if you would like to help cook, this is not compulsory. Vegetarian meals and other dietary requirements need to be specified prior to arrival. We do however ask you to wash your own dishes. Please note all bottled drinking water will be at your own expense.

Mode of Transport

7-seat 4x4 safari van, plane, private van, walking.

Minimum Age

Minimum age of 15 years for this trip.

Important Notes

1. ACCOMMODATION

Much of the accommodation on the Uganda/Rwanda portion is in simple furnished tents with shared bathroom facilities.

Please remember that this is a developing area and as such, accommodations/service may not be of similar standard to which you are used to in your home country. As well, interruptions in electricity and water can be common. We appreciate your patience and understanding, as well as your sense of adventure.



Please be aware that properties we stay in with only two stories may not have elevators installed and climbing the stairs with your luggage will be necessary.



2. SLEEPING BAGS

Sleeping bags can not be rented on any of our Africa overland or safari trips



3. AGE RESTRICTIONS - Gorilla Trekking

Please note that all passengers must be aged 15 years or older (prior to start of travel) to go on this tour - there are no exceptions to this as it is for safety reasons and strictly controlled by the Government.



4. PHYSICAL REQUIREMENT

This trip is rated a level 4 physical requirement - travellers should be in excellent physical condition, without any heart problems and prepared to spend strenuous days in humid rain forests, steep terrain and high altitude trekking for chimpanzee and gorillas, as well as other primates. Please ensure you meet the requirements as described under "physical rating".4. TRAVEL DAYS

Travelling can be difficult, as long drives and poor road conditions are the rule as opposed to the exception in Kenya, Uganda and Rwanda. A safari is about travelling to see animals, so we travel to the Masai Mara Game Reserve, and once there, we spend the majority of the time viewing wildlife while driving in the park. This translates to a lot of driving. Despite this, the diversity and scenery of the African landscape, the local culture and abundant wildlife are all well worth the experience.



5. COMBO TRIP

Please note that this tour is a combination of two G Adventures tours in two different countries. Due to local regulations, your local staff (driver/guide, cook) and vehicles will change halfway through the trip, and your group CEO and fellow passengers may also change.



6. YELLOW FEVER

Please be advised that it will be required to show a yellow fever certificate upon entering Uganda and Rwanda and it may be required for Kenya. Please check in with your local health expert for advice on Yellow Fever and other inoculations required for this area.



7. LUGGAGE COMPLICATIONS

It occasionally happens that luggage on international flights into Nairobi do not arrive, especially with, but not exclusive to, major airlines out of London-Heathrow or Schiphol (Amsterdam). Please be aware that this may happen, especially if you have a tight connection in either of these centres, are flying with different airlines with a connection, have a last minute flight change or re-route, or fly from or connect through another African centre. Please be prepared and keep all important documentation and valuables on your person. As well we recommend a change of clothes in your hand luggage. If unfortunately this does happen, and your luggage does not arrive, you should be entitled to a limited initial compensation from your airline. In Nairobi, the arrival of lost luggage normally takes between 48 and 72 hours after the initial plane’s arrival. The airlines technically should be responsible to forward your luggage to you, to your hotel or elsewhere in Kenya. You may find that your tour will begin, and you still have not received your luggage. Considering that the customer service standards in Kenya are different from home, and that we find that the airlines are not always pro-active in helping luggage in its care be reunited with its owner, it is recommended that you purchase locally a few needed items, begin your tour, and hire someone locally to persist with the your airline to retrieve your luggage. Your CEO or local representative will be able to help you organize this, and once your luggage is retrieved, it should be able to be forwarded to you – depending where you are. Please note that any costs that you may incur for luggage retrieval or sending luggage are not the responsibility of G Adventures, though we will always strive to assist you in any way possible. You should always keep all receipts and documentation, and contact your airline or insurance provider for reimbursement.



8. FLYING THROUGH LONDON-HEATHROW TO EAST AFRICA?

Please note that regardless of the rules in other centres, travellers flying from, or connecting in, London-Heathrow are currently only permitted one carry-on piece of luggage and one small personal bag (purse, laptop-size bag, briefcase) on board on flights to Nairobi. If you arrive to the security gate with 2 pieces, you will be forced to check-in one of them, which may result in complications noted above. This policy is in place as of the time of writing, though local rules and regulations may indeed change. It is thus advisable to contact your airline directly for the most up-to-date information.



9. ELECTRICITY

The power supply in Kenya, Uganda and Rwanda is nominally 240VAC, 50hz. Variable voltage, spikes and sporadic, unexpected, unscheduled power cuts of varying duration can be expected.



10. WILDLIFE SIGHTINGS

G Adventures can never guarantee the sighting of wildlife, especially when it comes to mountain gorillas. However, the mountain gorilla trek is organized to ensure success. Before heading into the jungle, our local guides receive coordinates from trackers on the whereabouts of the gorillas, and the trackers stay with the gorillas until the group arrives.



11. MIGRATION

Tanzania and Kenya

The Seronera Plains, which lie in the southeast of the National Park and extend into the western Ngorongoro Conservation Area, form the main ungulate calving grounds of the Serengeti. The wildebeest typically disperse into the Seronera plains during the short rains, which fall in late November or early December, before calving in January, and staying put until the end of the long rains from January to early May. Towards the end of April the wildebeest start to congregate on the southern plains in the preparation for the 800km northward migration. The major obstacle faced by the wildebeest on this migration is the crossing for the Grumeti River through the western corridor, which typically occurs from June into early July. From July to October, the ungulates disperse again, with about half of them crossing the Mara River into Kenya’s Masai Mara National Reserve and the remainder spreading out through the northern and western Serengeti. By late October the animals have generally started to plod back southward to the Seronera Plains, to arrive there in late November when the cycle starts all over again.



12. ILLNESS

Please note that if you are unwell with anything contagious, even a common cold, you may be denied any of the treks to ensure the safety of the gorillas and chimps. This is a national park regulation, and trekking permits will not be refunded if you are denied entrance due to illness.



13. CAMERAS

As it is very dark and damp in the jungle; please ensure your camera equipment is appropriate for such conditions and that you bring dry bags to protect it.



14. Bwindi Impenetrable National Park has four areas; Rushaga, Buhoma, Nkuringo, Ruhija. Depending on permit availability your group could be tracking gorillas from different areas of the park, it is all still part of Bwindi.

Group Leader

The CEO (Chief Experience Officer ) will be the group manager and leader. He/she organizes the trip, and will be there to assist you when needed. He/she will take care of the small things so you can concentrate on enjoying your adventure. Your leader may be from East Africa, or another country outside of the region, and will have a broad knowledge base of the region and wildlife. To round out the team, you will be joined by an expert driver/guide, and a camp cook. Your driver/guide is skilled and experienced driver and a certified safari guide, and is an integral part of the team. As well, your cook will prepare the camp meals and add some further local flavour to the trip.



During the trek in Bwindi Impenetrable National Park, we use an experienced and certified tracking guide, and armed guards to accompany you for your safety



We also use local guides for some included activities where we think more specific knowledge will add to the enjoyment of the places we are visiting.

About Accommodation

Camping in Kenya is truly an adventure. You will be able to get off the beaten track to get a first-hand experience of the beautiful wilderness and nature. While camping, we stay at designated campsites inside of and nearby the national reserves and parks. These campsites generally are very basic, and we carry tents to pitch at the public campsites.



While camping at the Masai Mara, we stay at a basic permanent, private tented camp. The camp has simple walk-in “safari tents” with single beds & mattresses. There is no electricity for lights or charging batteries. The facilities here are basic, though there are flushing toilets and hot water (when the boiler is working).



Hotel accommodation will be in simple, but comfortable twin-share rooms. All rooms are equipped with adequate mosquito netting (with the exception of your hotel in Musanze, where mosquito nets are not needed due to high-altitudes).



Tented accommodation will be in simple furnished tents on wooden platforms, with shared bathroom facilities. All tents are large, walk-in tents with mosquito-netting, two beds and provided linens.



Please remember that this is a developing area and as such, accommodations/service may not be of similar standard to which you are used to in your home country. As well, interruptions in electricity and water can be common. We appreciate your patience and understanding as well as your sense of adventure.

What to Take

You will be on the move a lot, so our advice is to pack as lightly as possible. Your baggage should be clearly labelled and restricted to one SOFT compact suitcase, sports bag, or backpack, no larger than 30cm(height) x 30cm(width) x 60cm(length), maximum 23kg, plus a daypack. Due to limited vehicle capacity, the cost of transporting any luggage beyond these restrictions is the responsibility of the client.



For our camping style tours we provide the walk-in “safari tents” with single beds, mattresses, small pillow and all bedding. You may bring your own sleeping bag, small pillow, and sleeping sheet (if you would like), but it is not required.



On this trip, you may experience several types of weather. It is important to pack clothes for warm days and cool evenings, as well as a warm jacket for early morning wildlife safari drives. Light, quick-drying, practical clothes are advisable for this trip. A set of smart casual clothes is also advisable for your time in Nairobi. Your clothes will in all likelihood get very muddy and may not recover to their original state - therefore take old clothing for trekking. Hard-wearing clothes, no bright colours, or no army camouflage clothing should be worn. Greens, khaki and similar neutral clothes are recommended.

Spending Money

Every traveller is different and therefore spending money requirements will vary. Some travellers may drink more than others while other travellers like to purchase more souvenirs than most. Please consider your own spending habits when it comes to allowing for drinks, shopping and tipping. Please also remember the following specific recommendations when planning your trip.

Check out our Q&As

  • What's Included

    Your G for Good Moment: Amani Ya Juu Lunch, Nairobi
    Your G for Good Moment: Nyamirambo Women's Centre, Local Lunch, Kigali
    Your Welcome Moment: Welcome Moment - Meet Your CEO and Group. Masai Mara National Reserve wildlife safari drives. Safari camping experience. Guest farm stay near Kibale National Park. Chimpanzee trek. Bigodi Community lunch. Queen Elizabeth National Park wildlife safari drives. Guided gorilla trekking in Bwindi Impenetrable National Park. Visit to Kigali Genocide Museum. All national park fees and trekking permits. Internal flight. All transport between destinations and to/from included activities.

  • Highlights

    Explore the Masai Mara National Reserve, view diverse wildlife in search of the "big five", spend two nights in a safari camp, admire a family of mountain gorillas in their natural habitat, trek to see chimpanzees in Uganda, keep your eyes peeled for the plentiful elephant and hippo populations in Queen Elizabeth National Park

  • Dossier Disclaimer

    The information in this trip details document has been compiled with care and is provided in good faith. However it is subject to change, and does not form part of the contract between the client and the operator. The itinerary featured is correct at time of printing. It may differ slightly to the one in the brochure. Occasionally our itineraries change as we make improvements that stem from past travellers, comments and our own research. Sometimes it can be a small change like adding an extra meal along the itinerary. Sometimes the change may result in us altering the tour for the coming year. Ultimately, our goal is to provide you with the most rewarding experience. Please note that our brochure is usually released in November each year. If you have booked from the previous brochure you may find there have been some changes to the itinerary.



    VERY IMPORTANT: Please ensure that you print a final copy of your Trip Details to review a couple of days prior to travel, in case there have been changes that affect your plans.

  • Itinerary Disclaimer

    While it is our intention to adhere to the route described below, there is a certain amount of flexibility built into the itinerary and on occasion it may be necessary, or desirable to make alterations. The itinerary is brief, as we never know exactly where our journey will take us. Due to our style of travel and the regions we visit, travel can be unpredictable. The Trip Details document is a general guide to the tour and region and any mention of specific destinations or wildlife is by no means a guarantee that they will be visited or encountered. Aboard expedition trips visits to research stations depend on final permission.



    Additionally, any travel times listed are approximations only and subject to vary due to local circumstances.

  • Important Notes

    1. ACCOMMODATION

    Much of the accommodation on the Uganda/Rwanda portion is in simple furnished tents with shared bathroom facilities.

    Please remember that this is a developing area and as such, accommodations/service may not be of similar standard to which you are used to in your home country. As well, interruptions in electricity and water can be common. We appreciate your patience and understanding, as well as your sense of adventure.



    Please be aware that properties we stay in with only two stories may not have elevators installed and climbing the stairs with your luggage will be necessary.



    2. SLEEPING BAGS

    Sleeping bags can not be rented on any of our Africa overland or safari trips



    3. AGE RESTRICTIONS - Gorilla Trekking

    Please note that all passengers must be aged 15 years or older (prior to start of travel) to go on this tour - there are no exceptions to this as it is for safety reasons and strictly controlled by the Government.



    4. PHYSICAL REQUIREMENT

    This trip is rated a level 4 physical requirement - travellers should be in excellent physical condition, without any heart problems and prepared to spend strenuous days in humid rain forests, steep terrain and high altitude trekking for chimpanzee and gorillas, as well as other primates. Please ensure you meet the requirements as described under "physical rating".4. TRAVEL DAYS

    Travelling can be difficult, as long drives and poor road conditions are the rule as opposed to the exception in Kenya, Uganda and Rwanda. A safari is about travelling to see animals, so we travel to the Masai Mara Game Reserve, and once there, we spend the majority of the time viewing wildlife while driving in the park. This translates to a lot of driving. Despite this, the diversity and scenery of the African landscape, the local culture and abundant wildlife are all well worth the experience.



    5. COMBO TRIP

    Please note that this tour is a combination of two G Adventures tours in two different countries. Due to local regulations, your local staff (driver/guide, cook) and vehicles will change halfway through the trip, and your group CEO and fellow passengers may also change.



    6. YELLOW FEVER

    Please be advised that it will be required to show a yellow fever certificate upon entering Uganda and Rwanda and it may be required for Kenya. Please check in with your local health expert for advice on Yellow Fever and other inoculations required for this area.



    7. LUGGAGE COMPLICATIONS

    It occasionally happens that luggage on international flights into Nairobi do not arrive, especially with, but not exclusive to, major airlines out of London-Heathrow or Schiphol (Amsterdam). Please be aware that this may happen, especially if you have a tight connection in either of these centres, are flying with different airlines with a connection, have a last minute flight change or re-route, or fly from or connect through another African centre. Please be prepared and keep all important documentation and valuables on your person. As well we recommend a change of clothes in your hand luggage. If unfortunately this does happen, and your luggage does not arrive, you should be entitled to a limited initial compensation from your airline. In Nairobi, the arrival of lost luggage normally takes between 48 and 72 hours after the initial plane’s arrival. The airlines technically should be responsible to forward your luggage to you, to your hotel or elsewhere in Kenya. You may find that your tour will begin, and you still have not received your luggage. Considering that the customer service standards in Kenya are different from home, and that we find that the airlines are not always pro-active in helping luggage in its care be reunited with its owner, it is recommended that you purchase locally a few needed items, begin your tour, and hire someone locally to persist with the your airline to retrieve your luggage. Your CEO or local representative will be able to help you organize this, and once your luggage is retrieved, it should be able to be forwarded to you – depending where you are. Please note that any costs that you may incur for luggage retrieval or sending luggage are not the responsibility of G Adventures, though we will always strive to assist you in any way possible. You should always keep all receipts and documentation, and contact your airline or insurance provider for reimbursement.



    8. FLYING THROUGH LONDON-HEATHROW TO EAST AFRICA?

    Please note that regardless of the rules in other centres, travellers flying from, or connecting in, London-Heathrow are currently only permitted one carry-on piece of luggage and one small personal bag (purse, laptop-size bag, briefcase) on board on flights to Nairobi. If you arrive to the security gate with 2 pieces, you will be forced to check-in one of them, which may result in complications noted above. This policy is in place as of the time of writing, though local rules and regulations may indeed change. It is thus advisable to contact your airline directly for the most up-to-date information.



    9. ELECTRICITY

    The power supply in Kenya, Uganda and Rwanda is nominally 240VAC, 50hz. Variable voltage, spikes and sporadic, unexpected, unscheduled power cuts of varying duration can be expected.



    10. WILDLIFE SIGHTINGS

    G Adventures can never guarantee the sighting of wildlife, especially when it comes to mountain gorillas. However, the mountain gorilla trek is organized to ensure success. Before heading into the jungle, our local guides receive coordinates from trackers on the whereabouts of the gorillas, and the trackers stay with the gorillas until the group arrives.



    11. MIGRATION

    Tanzania and Kenya

    The Seronera Plains, which lie in the southeast of the National Park and extend into the western Ngorongoro Conservation Area, form the main ungulate calving grounds of the Serengeti. The wildebeest typically disperse into the Seronera plains during the short rains, which fall in late November or early December, before calving in January, and staying put until the end of the long rains from January to early May. Towards the end of April the wildebeest start to congregate on the southern plains in the preparation for the 800km northward migration. The major obstacle faced by the wildebeest on this migration is the crossing for the Grumeti River through the western corridor, which typically occurs from June into early July. From July to October, the ungulates disperse again, with about half of them crossing the Mara River into Kenya’s Masai Mara National Reserve and the remainder spreading out through the northern and western Serengeti. By late October the animals have generally started to plod back southward to the Seronera Plains, to arrive there in late November when the cycle starts all over again.



    12. ILLNESS

    Please note that if you are unwell with anything contagious, even a common cold, you may be denied any of the treks to ensure the safety of the gorillas and chimps. This is a national park regulation, and trekking permits will not be refunded if you are denied entrance due to illness.



    13. CAMERAS

    As it is very dark and damp in the jungle; please ensure your camera equipment is appropriate for such conditions and that you bring dry bags to protect it.



    14. Bwindi Impenetrable National Park has four areas; Rushaga, Buhoma, Nkuringo, Ruhija. Depending on permit availability your group could be tracking gorillas from different areas of the park, it is all still part of Bwindi.

  • Group Leader Description

    The CEO (Chief Experience Officer ) will be the group manager and leader. He/she organizes the trip, and will be there to assist you when needed. He/she will take care of the small things so you can concentrate on enjoying your adventure. Your leader may be from East Africa, or another country outside of the region, and will have a broad knowledge base of the region and wildlife. To round out the team, you will be joined by an expert driver/guide, and a camp cook. Your driver/guide is skilled and experienced driver and a certified safari guide, and is an integral part of the team. As well, your cook will prepare the camp meals and add some further local flavour to the trip.



    During the trek in Bwindi Impenetrable National Park, we use an experienced and certified tracking guide, and armed guards to accompany you for your safety



    We also use local guides for some included activities where we think more specific knowledge will add to the enjoyment of the places we are visiting.

  • Group Size Notes

    Max 12, avg 10. The Masai Mara portion of the trip often runs at smaller group sizes and is limited to a maximum of 7.

  • Meals Included

    11 breakfasts, 7 lunches, 6 dinners

  • Meals

    Shopping for food will be done before the trip departs, fresh vegetables and fruit will be bought along the route from supermarkets, local shops and markets. Breakfasts will generally be cereals, if time allows a warm breakfast may be prepared. Lunches will be either en route, in the wildlife park, or in camp, and will be light meals such as sandwiches or salads. All evening meals will be hot and will consist of a variety of continental and local dishes. Meals will be prepared by the crew with assistance from you if you would like to help cook, this is not compulsory. Vegetarian meals and other dietary requirements need to be specified prior to arrival. We do however ask you to wash your own dishes. Please note all bottled drinking water will be at your own expense.

  • Transport

    7-seat 4x4 safari van, plane, private van, walking.

  • About our Transportation

    With sliding windows and a large pop-up roofs, these vans are designed for wildlife viewing. Road conditions can run the full range of conditions from new to very poor. This style of travel is by no means luxurious, but the seats are comfortable and having our own private vehicles allow us the flexibility of making stops when needed, and to stay and watch that crouching lion prepare for an attack.



    Speed governors set to 80kph are used on all vehicles to ensure a safe driving speed. Please note for your own safety it is mandatory to wear your seat belt at all times when in a vehicle.



    All G Adventure vehicles are regularly serviced and follow a strict maintenance schedule. However given the long travel days and rough conditions of many of the roads in Africa, vehicles can and do breakdown on occasion. If such situations occur all drivers are trained mechanics and any vehicle issues are rectified as quickly as possible so as to not disrupt your trip. Your patience is requested if the vehicle you are traveling in happens to encounter a mechanical fault.

  • Local Flights

    Please be advised that any flights noted on the G Adventures Itinerary for this tour are included in the tour services provided. Flight tickets are provided by G Adventures during the tour. The date for this service will match the day of the itinerary, for which Day 1 is equal to the start date noted on the Invoice under Land Services: Tour. If flight information is required in advance for visa purposes, please contact G Adventures.

  • Solo Travellers

    We believe solo travellers should not have to pay more to travel so our group trips are designed for shared accommodation and do not involve a single supplement. Single travellers joining group trips are paired in twin or multi-share accommodation with someone of the same sex for the duration of the trip. Some of our Independent trips are designed differently and solo travellers on these itineraries must pay the single trip price.

  • Accommodation

    Standard hotel (3 nts), simple furnished tents
    ooms (8 nts).

  • My Own Room

    Please note that if you have booked the "My Own Room/Tent" option for this tour, you will receive your own single room/tent for all night stops.

  • About Accommodation

    Camping in Kenya is truly an adventure. You will be able to get off the beaten track to get a first-hand experience of the beautiful wilderness and nature. While camping, we stay at designated campsites inside of and nearby the national reserves and parks. These campsites generally are very basic, and we carry tents to pitch at the public campsites.



    While camping at the Masai Mara, we stay at a basic permanent, private tented camp. The camp has simple walk-in “safari tents” with single beds & mattresses. There is no electricity for lights or charging batteries. The facilities here are basic, though there are flushing toilets and hot water (when the boiler is working).



    Hotel accommodation will be in simple, but comfortable twin-share rooms. All rooms are equipped with adequate mosquito netting (with the exception of your hotel in Musanze, where mosquito nets are not needed due to high-altitudes).



    Tented accommodation will be in simple furnished tents on wooden platforms, with shared bathroom facilities. All tents are large, walk-in tents with mosquito-netting, two beds and provided linens.



    Please remember that this is a developing area and as such, accommodations/service may not be of similar standard to which you are used to in your home country. As well, interruptions in electricity and water can be common. We appreciate your patience and understanding as well as your sense of adventure.

  • Joining Instructions

    For details of your joining hotel please refer to your tour voucher, G Account, the G Adventures App or contact your travel agent.



    If you would like to book an airport Arrival transfer for your tour, please contact our Sales Team or your Travel Agent in advance of travel.



    If you have paid in advance for an arrival transfer, a G Adventures representative will be at the airport to meet you. If for any reason you are not met at the airport, please call our local support line. If you are unable to make contact for whatever reason, please make your way to the joining point hotel via taxi.





    Please note that day 1 is an arrival day and no activities have been planned on this day.



    Upon arrival to your Joining Hotel (note that check-in time will be in the afternoon), look for a note or bulletin board in the reception with a note from your CEO. This note will give the details of your Welcome Meeting on day 1 (usually between 5pm and 7pm), where you will get a chance to meet your CEO and other travellers, as well as learn more about how the tour will run. If you don’t see a note, please ask reception for details!



    If you are arriving later and will miss the Welcome Meeting, your CEO will leave a note at reception for you with any information you may need, and with morning instructions for the next day.

  • Arrival Complications

    We don't expect any problems, and nor should you, but if for any reason you are unable to commence your trip as scheduled, please refer to the emergency contact details provided in this dossier and contact us as soon as possible. If you have a pre-booked transfer, and you have not made contact with our representative within 30 minutes of clearing customs and immigration, we recommend that you make your own way to the Starting Point hotel, following the Joining Instructions. Please apply to your travel agent on your return for a refund of the transfer cost if this occurs.

  • Emergency Contact

    Should you need to contact us during a situation of dire need, it is best to first call either the G Adventures Local Representative (if one is listed below) or our G Adventures Local Office. If for any reason you do not receive an immediate answer, please leave a detailed message and contact information, so they may return your call and assist you as soon as possible.



    AIRPORT TRANSFER

    If you have purchased an arrival through G Adventures or if an arrival transfer is included in the cost of your tour, please note that:



    Your arrival transfer has been arranged based on flight information provided to us. If you are advised of a flight schedule change or flight cancellation within 48 hours of your scheduled arrival time, please call the emergency contact number to advise of your new arrival flight information. If you do not, we will not be able to rearrange your arrival transfer and you will need to make your own way to the starting hotel at your own expense. If your arrival transfer does not arrive within 30 minutes after you have exited the arrivals area please take a taxi to your start point hotel. 



    For any issues relating to pre-booked transfers for Nairobi Jomo Kenyatta International Airport, including delays or missed transfers, please contact our airport transfer operator:

    Phelix: +254 729 692 653 (from outside of Kenya)

    Phelix: 0729 692 653(from within Kenya)



    EMERGENCY CONTACT NUMBERS

    G Adventures Local Representative (Kenya)

    Mr. Ashwin Bhatt

    During office hours, Mon-Fri, 9am-5pm

    From outside of Kenya: +254 721 474 814 or +254 729 163 545

    From within Kenya: 0721 474 814 or 0729 163 545



    G Adventures Local Office (Nairobi, Kenya)

    From outside Kenya: +254 727 208 832

    From within Kenya: 0727 208 832



    G Adventures Local Representative (Rwanda)

    Robert: +250 784 744 586 or +250 789 080 348



    If you are unable for any reason to contact our local office, please call the numbers listed below which will connect you directly with our Sales team who will happily assist you. Hours of operation by region can be found here.



    Toll-free, North America only: 1 888 800 4100

    Calls from UK: 0344 272 0000

    Calls from Germany: 0800 365 1000

    Calls from Australia: 1 300 796 618

    Calls from New Zealand: 0800 333 307

    Outside North America, Australia, New Zealand, Germany and the UK: +1 416 260 0999

  • What to Take

    You will be on the move a lot, so our advice is to pack as lightly as possible. Your baggage should be clearly labelled and restricted to one SOFT compact suitcase, sports bag, or backpack, no larger than 30cm(height) x 30cm(width) x 60cm(length), maximum 23kg, plus a daypack. Due to limited vehicle capacity, the cost of transporting any luggage beyond these restrictions is the responsibility of the client.



    For our camping style tours we provide the walk-in “safari tents” with single beds, mattresses, small pillow and all bedding. You may bring your own sleeping bag, small pillow, and sleeping sheet (if you would like), but it is not required.



    On this trip, you may experience several types of weather. It is important to pack clothes for warm days and cool evenings, as well as a warm jacket for early morning wildlife safari drives. Light, quick-drying, practical clothes are advisable for this trip. A set of smart casual clothes is also advisable for your time in Nairobi. Your clothes will in all likelihood get very muddy and may not recover to their original state - therefore take old clothing for trekking. Hard-wearing clothes, no bright colours, or no army camouflage clothing should be worn. Greens, khaki and similar neutral clothes are recommended.

  • Packing List

    Documents:
    • Flight info (required) (Printouts of e-tickets may be required at the border)
    • Insurance info (required) (With photocopies)
    • Passport (required) (With photocopies)
    • Vouchers and pre-departure information (required)
    • Visas or vaccination certificates (With photocopies)

    Essentials:
    • Toiletries (required) (Shampoo, bodywash, soap, etc.)
    • Binoculars (optional)
    • Camera (With extra memory cards and batteries)
    • Cash, credit and debit cards
    • Day pack (Used for daily excursions or short overnights)
    • Ear plugs
    • First-aid kit (should contain lip balm with sunscreen, sunscreen, whistle, Aspirin, Ibuprofen, bandaids/plasters, tape, anti-histamines, antibacterial gel/wipes, antiseptic cream, Imodium or similar tablets for mild cases of diarrhea, rehydration powder, water purification tablets or drops, insect repellent, sewing kit, extra prescription drugs you may be taking)
    • Flashlight/torch (Headlamps are ideal)
    • Fleece top/sweater
    • Footwear
    • Hat
    • Locks for bags
    • Long pants/jeans
    • Moneybelt
    • Outlet adapter
    • Personal entertainment (Reading and writing materials, cards, music player, etc.)
    • Reusable water bottle
    • Shirts/t-shirts
    • Sleepwear
    • Small travel towel
    • Sunglasses
    • Swimwear
    • Watch and alarm clock
    • Waterproof backpack cover
    • Windproof rain jacket

    Gorillas:
    • Gardening gloves (Highly recommended for gorilla trekking)
    • Neutral coloured clothing (Your clothes will likely get very muddy - therefore take old clothing for the gorilla trekking. No bright colours should be worn. Greens, khaki and similar neutral clothes are recommended)

    Health & Safety:
    • Hand sanitizer (required)
    • Face masks (Clients will be only be required to wear a face mask where it is mandated by local regulations.)
    • Pen (Please bring your own pen for filling out documents.)

    Trekking:
    • Gloves
    • Hat
    • Hiking boots/sturdy walking shoes
    • Hiking pants (Convertible/Zip-off and quick dry recommended)
    • Snacks (Protein bars, chocolate, dried fruits, candies, energy sweets)
    • Socks (Trekking socks — woollen or synthetic, not cotton)
    • Thermal base layer (Woollen or synthetic, not cotton)
    • Walking poles (Highly recommended)

    Warm Weather:
    • Sandals/flip-flops
    • Shorts/skirts (Longer shorts/skirts are recommended)
    • Sturdy water shoes/sandals
    • Sun hat/bandana
    • Swimwear

    Note: The climate in East Africa varies between the dry and rainy season. Please ensure you bring a windproof rain jacket if you are travelling between April & May, October & November.



    Please be aware that towels will not be provided during this trip. We encourage you to pack your own towel.

  • Laundry

    Hand washing of clothes can be done at campsites, as most have simple facilities for this. We recommend you bring a non-polluting/biodegradable soap, as well as a roll of simple string to act as a drying line for your clothes. If you arrive in the late afternoon, or if there is poor weather, it may not be possible for your clothes to completely dry. Laundry facilities are offered by some of our hotels and lodges for a charge.

  • Visas and Entry Requirements

    All countries require a valid passport (with a minimum 6 months validity). Contact your local embassy or consulate for the most up-to-date visa requirements, or see your travel agent. It is your own responsibility to have the correct travel documentation. Visa requirements for your trip will vary depending on where you are from and where you are going. We keep the following information up to date as far as possible, but rules do change and sometimes without warning. While we provide the following information in good faith, it is vital that you check the information yourself and understand that you are fully responsible for your own visa requirements.



    Visa information specific to your destination and nationality can be found in our Important Pre-Departure Information page here



    Kenya:

    As of January 1st 2024, the Kenyan government announced the introduction of a new Electronic Travel Authorisation (eTA) scheme, eliminating the requirement for all nationalities to obtain a visitor visa for Kenya. ALL travellers must apply for the eTA, including those that were previously exempt. 

    For more information, please refer to the eTA site here



    IMPORTANT NOTE:

    It may be required to show a Yellow Fever certificate upon entering the country. Please check in with your local consulate and health expert for advice on Yellow Fever and other inoculations required for this area.



    ********************



    Uganda:

    Visas for Uganda for most nationalities must be obtained through an Electronic Visa application online in advance, and a payment of $50 USD cash will have to be made upon arrival to the border.



    For more information, please refer to the E-Visa site here



    ********************



    Rwanda:

    Most nationalities will require a visa to visit Rwanda. For more information, please refer to the Rwanda immigration department’s official website here



    ********************



    East Africa Tourist Visa:

    An East Africa Tourist Visa allows the holder to move freely between Rwanda and Uganda with only one Visa, and is valid for a period of 90 days. It also acts as a multiple entry Visa, so if you leave any of the above countries, you do not need a new Visa to re-enter (provided it is within the 90 day validity period).

    This needs to be applied for in advance, for visitors who wish to visit simultaneously the two countries (Rwanda and Uganda) for tourism.

    If acquiring the EATV visa before travel, your first entry point must be the country through which you applied for the visa. The East Africa Tourist Visa costs US$100.



    Information is accurate as of March 1st, 2024.

  • Detailed Trip Notes

    IMPORTANT ACCOMMODATION NOTE

    Please note that as we use public campsites on all or part of this trip we cannot guarantee electricity for the use of Sleep Apnea and CPAP machines. 



    REGIONAL INFORMATION

    Climate

    There are generally two rainy seasons - the short and the long rains. The short rains normally occur from late October through November, and the long rains from late March through to early June. A good time to visit is between late June and October when the rains have finished and the air is coolest. Alternatively, from late December to February or early March is another good time to visit, just after the short rains, but before the long rains; this is the warmest time of the year. The highest season for travellers into the region is in January and February, when the hot, dry weather is generally considered to be the most pleasant. During the rainy season it can be deceptively cold at times and evenings can be cool year round, so ensure you have adequate warm clothing such a a fleece or warm sweater.



    Electricity

    The electric current in Kenya operates on 220 volts. Electric plugs types come in at least four sizes and vary throughout the country, however, the two rounded pin standard plug is acceptable in most parts of the country. 3 pin square plugs are most common.



    Language

    The official languages are Swahili and English. There are also numerous dialects spoken throughout.



    KENYA - Official Statistics

    Full country name: Republic of Kenya (Jamhuri Ya Kenya)

    Area: 580,367 km2

    Population: 34,256,000-July 2005 est. (31,138,735- 2002 Census)

    Capital city: Nairobi

    People: 22% Kikuyu, 14% Luhya, 13% Luo, 12% Kalenjin, 11% Kamba, 6% Kisii, 6% Meru, 16% other

    Languages: English, Swahili, indigenous.

    Religion: 35% Protestant, 30% Roman Catholic, 30% Muslim, 5% Animist

    Government: Republic (multiparty state)

    President: Uhuru Kenyatta

    Major industries: small-scale consumer goods (plastic, furniture, beer, batteries, textiles, flour), agricultural processing, oil refining, chemicals, cement, tourism.

    Major trading partners: Uganda, Tanzania, UK, Germany, UAE, South Africa



    INTERESTING FACTS

    -At 580,367 km2 the country is two and a half times the size of Britain.

    -The population is over 30 million and has one of the world’s fastest growth rates.

    -Kenya gained independence in 1963 after 80 years of British rule.

    -Most Kenyans are subsistence farmers.

    -Coffee and tea are grown commercially and tourism is also a huge income for the country. The country is still in huge debt though and has few mineral resources and corruption is again a problem.

    -The country lies on the equator and has good national parks and Mount Kenya the second highest peak in Africa. It also has good beaches and colourful people. Nairobi is the capital and Mombassa the countries port city.

  • Spending Money

    Every traveller is different and therefore spending money requirements will vary. Some travellers may drink more than others while other travellers like to purchase more souvenirs than most. Please consider your own spending habits when it comes to allowing for drinks, shopping and tipping. Please also remember the following specific recommendations when planning your trip.

  • Money Exchange

    The local currency in Rwanda is the Rwanda Franc. In Uganda it is the Ugandan Shilling.



    Kenya is the Kenyan Shilling (KES, or KSH)



    Shillings can be obtained locally by changing foreign currency or by using ATMs (where available) which will disperse local currency.

    Your CEO will inform you where you can change money throughout the tour and approximately how much money you will need for each country.



    The easiest foreign currency to exchange for locally for any of the local currencies is the $US; however the British Pound and Euro may also be exchanged as well. Please note that due to past problems with forgery, $US notes that are older than year 2006 are not accepted in Africa. Larger note ($US 50, $US 100 etc) can be difficult to change in some places, but will gain you the best exchange rate.



    If you plan to buy your visas at borders, you will need to bring $USD cash to pay for these visas. Please note you cannot use the local currency or any other currency to buy these visas- they must be purchased in USD.



    Please do not bring Travellers’ cheques toAfrica. They are difficult if not impossible to exchange in many places.



    Visa/Plus system cards are the most widely accepted debit cards. it is harder to find machines Mastercard/Cirrus cards. We highly recommend that if you hold a Mastercard, you obtain a Visa card prior to departure and travel with both. This is also useful should something unforeseen happen to one of your cards during your travels.

    While there are many ATMs in the major centres, there are no guarantees that your credit or debit cards will actually work in Africa. Check with your bank.



    Credit cards can be used in major cities and towns ONLY but please do not rely on them as a method of payment because they are generally not widely accepted. You should be aware that to purchase products or services on a credit card a fee of 5%-10% usually applies. The majority of our optional activities can also be paid by credit card. Your CEO will advise on these.



    Please note that in many areas there may be occasional power-outages, where there will be no electricity for hours at a time. In addition, ATMs outside of larger centers often run out of cash or can be out of order unexpectedly. These factors could affect your ability to access money from ATMs. As such, please do not rely on credit or debit cards as your only source of money.

    A combination of foreign currency and debit/credit cards for cash advances is best. Always take more rather than less, as you don't want to spoil the trip by constantly feeling short of funds.



    As currency exchange rates can fluctuate often we ask that you refer to the following website for daily exchange rates: www.xe.com.

  • Emergency Fund

    Please also make sure you have access to at least an additional USD $200 (or equivalent) as an 'emergency' fund, to be used when circumstances outside our control (ex. a natural disaster) require a change to our planned route. This is a rare occurrence!

  • Departure Tax

    USD40, usually included in most international air tickets.

  • Tipping

    Tipping is an expected, though not compulsory, component of your tour program. The gesture serves as an expression of appreciation for exceptional service, and amounts given are up to your discretion.



    Tipping is one of the most direct ways that you can have a positive economic impact within the African community. Although it may not be customary for you, it is an important source of income for those in the tourism industry. Giving a tip should be seen as a formal 'thank you', and the action should in no way be awkward.



    The best method of tipping someone that has served the whole group is to plan in advance, and not rush when it comes to saying goodbye. A suggestion would be for each group member to contribute anonymously by putting their tip into an envelope. This often works the best and the group should gather to present the gift to the recipient(s), offering their thanks and showing their appreciation. This method brings the action out into the open, allowing for friendly and appreciative interaction between the group and the recipient(s).



    You may use the following as a guideline, all given in a per person format:



    CEO: $5 USD (per day)



    Driver: $5 USD (per day)



    Supply crew: $2-5 USD (per day)



    Local guides: $1 USD (per couple of hours)



    Restaurant/café servers: 10% of the cost of the bill, especially when in a large group (no envelope required).



    Trekking Guides in Uganda and Rwanda:



    Certified Safari Guide/Driver: $10-15 USD (full day)

  • Optional Activities

    Nairobi
    - Bomas of Kenya Tour (120USD per person)
    - The Carnivore Restaurant (130USD per person)
    - National Museum (53--3USD per person)
    - Karen Blixen Museum (34-75USD per person)
    - Railway Museum (6-34USD per person)

    Masai Mara
    - Maasai Mara Balloon Safari

    Bigodi
    - Bigodi Swamp Walk (20USD per person)

    Queen Elizabeth National Park
    - Kazinga Channel Cruise (30USD per person)

    Bwindi Impenetrable National Park
    - Porter Hire (20USD per person)

  • Health

    We recommend you contact your family physician, or your local travel clinic for the most up-to-date health information at least one month before departure. Travellers should also carry a basic first-aid kit and hand sanitizers/antibacterial wipes on their travels. Medical facilities are basic throughout these countries. For your own safety, we strongly recommend that you advise your tour leader of any medical condition that may affect you while travelling with the group. Your tour leader will be able to inform you of local health advisories (e.g. drinking water quality). Please ensure you have all the inoculations recommended by your doctor.





    Yellow Fever Certificate Note: (Updated: May 2023)



    It is compulsory to show a valid Yellow Fever Certificate if you are travelling to the following G Adventures-visited countries from a Yellow Fever endemic country:



    - Botswana

    - Ethiopia

    - Kenya

    - Madagascar

    - Malawi

    - Mozambique

    - Rwanda

    - South Africa

    - Swaziland

    - Uganda

    - Zambia

    - Zimbabwe



    For some of these countries, proof of Yellow Fever vaccination is also required for passengers who have travelled more than 12 hours through the airport of an endemic country. If other countries not endemic to Yellow Fever have been visited after visiting an endemic country, then a Yellow Fever certificate may still be required on entry. Please check country-specific regulations before your departure.





    Malaria

    Malaria is a mosquito-borne disease that is present in some regions in Africa. Risk of malaria can increase during periods of heavy rain, during the rainy seasons, and in densely populated areas of Southern & East Africa. To prevent malaria, we recommend speaking to your doctor about taking preventative medication (prophylaxis), combined with regular use of insect repellent spray/cream. Please check updated travel health advisories specific to malaria before your departure.

  • Safety and Security

    Many national governments provide a regularly updated advice service on safety issues involved with international travel. We recommend that you check your government's advice for their latest travel information before departure. We strongly recommend the use of a neck wallet or money belt while travelling, for the safe keeping of your passport, air tickets, travellers' cheques, cash and other valuable items. Leave your valuable jewellery at home - you won't need it while travelling. Many of the hotels we use have safety deposit boxes, which is the most secure way of storing your valuables. A lock is recommended for securing your luggage. When travelling on a group trip, please note that your CEO has the authority to amend or cancel any part of the trip itinerary if it is deemed necessary due to safety concerns. Your CEO will accompany you on all included activities. During your trip you will have some free time to pursue your own interests, relax and take it easy or explore at your leisure. While your CEO will assist you with options available in a given location please note that any optional activities you undertake are not part of your itinerary, and we offer no representations about the safety of the activity or the standard of the operators running them. Please use your own good judgment when selecting an activity in your free time. Although the cities visited on tour are generally safe during the day, there can be risks to wandering throughout any major city at night. It is our recommendation to stay in small groups and to take taxis to and from restaurants, or during night time excursions.



    Protests and Demonstrations- Protests and demonstrations, even those that are well intended, have the potential to turn violent with no warning. Counter protests can also turn violent. Action by security forces to disperse demonstrators and protesters may occur at any time. If you are in an area where demonstrators or protesters are gathering, avoid the temptation of staying for a good photo opportunity and leave the area immediately.



    Water based activities have an element of danger and excitement built into them. We recommend only participating in water based activities when accompanied by a guide(s). We make every reasonable effort to ensure the fun and adventurous element of any water based activities (in countries with varying degrees of operating standards) have a balanced approach to safety. It is our policy not to allow our CEOs to make arrangements on your behalf for water based activities that are not accompanied by guide(s).



    Swimming, including snorkeling, is always at your own risk.



    We take all prudent measures in relation to your safety. For ways to further enhance your personal safety while traveling, please visit:





    www.gadventures.com/travel-resources/safety/

  • Trip Specific Safety

    Nairobi

    -Always leave your passport (It’s better to carry a photocopy of it instead), traveller’s cheques, flight tickets and money that you won’t be using in the safe deposit in your hotel room
    eception. This is free of charge to G Adventures Adventure clients.

    -Remember that like in any other city, you should never leave your bags unattended, nor flaunt jewellery, cameras etc

    -Please don’t wander through the city at night. Stick to the main streets only during the day, and after sundown, please take a taxi. Taxis can be organised from reception of your hotel. Also, take the address of the hotel with you.

    -People are generally friendly, but don’t let people take advantage of you, especially the sales people!

    -Beware of people approaching you on the street with an apparent interest of where you are from, and want to sit down and have a chat with you. These people are most likely con men and try to get money from you in one way or another

    -People on the street who ask you if you want a safari and have a brochure are often con men, best to avoid these folk. Besides, you’re already on safari!



    Photography

    Please refrain from taking photos of police stations, airports, bus stations, immigration are border crossings, army barracks and personnel, or any government building. It is against the law and will result in the minimum of your film and camera being confiscated.



    Cities

    Please exercise caution in the cities and always take a pre-arranged taxi if you go out at night.



    Trekking/safari

    At all times, please abide by all National park
    eserve rules and always follow interactions from guides/trackers specifically, these are set to not just protect the wildlife but also to protect you.

  • A Couple of Rules

    Illegal drugs will not be tolerated on any trips. Possessing or using drugs not only contravenes the laws of the land but also puts the rest of the group at risk. Smoking marijuana and opium is a part of local culture in some parts of the world but is not acceptable for our travellers. Our philosophy of travel is one of respect towards everyone we encounter and in particular the local people who make the world the special place it is. The exploitation of people in the sex trade is completely contrary to this philosophy. Our CEOs have the right to expel any member of the group if drugs are found in their possession or if they utilize the services of paid sex workers, in any capacity.

  • Travel Insurance

    Travel insurance is compulsory in order to participate on any of our trips. When travelling on a group trip, you will not be permitted to join the group until evidence of travel insurance has been sighted by your leader, who will take note of your insurance details. When selecting a travel insurance policy we require that at a minimum you are covered for medical expenses including emergency evacuation and repatriation. A minimum coverage of USD200,000 is required. G Adventures can provide you with the appropriate coverage. We strongly recommend that the policy also covers personal liability, cancellation, curtailment and loss of luggage and personal effects. Some tours include adventure activities that require extra coverage (e.g. crampon use); please review your itinerary and make sure that you are covered for all included activities. If you have credit card insurance we require proof of purchase of the trip (a receipt of credit card statement) with a credit card in your name. Contact your bank for details of their participating insurer, the level of coverage and emergency contact telephone number.

  • Planeterra Foundation - the non-profit partner of G Adventures

    Planeterra International Foundation is a non-profit organization committed to turning travel into impact by helping local communities earn an income from tourism. Planeterra connects underserved local communities to the benefits of tourism by developing and supporting small community-owned businesses. These businesses support Indigenous people, empower women, grant youth access to employment opportunities, and protect the environment. Planeterra also works to ensure these businesses have a thriving customer base by integrating their projects into G Adventures’ itineraries globally.

    G Adventures is Planeterra’s largest corporate donor, covering all operating costs, so 100% of your donation will bring opportunity to people in need.



    G Adventures Dollar-a-day Program - Make Every Day Count - Turn your travel into impact with Planeterra Foundation.



    Did you know? Most communities around the world do not benefit from tourism. Give back to the places you visit on your travels by creating opportunities for local people to earn an income, and protect the environment.



    Make every day count by donating $1/day for the length of your trip, and join us in empowering the communities you will visit when you travel. 100% of your donation goes directly to Planeterra projects.

  • Feedback

    After your travels, we want to hear from you! Your feedback information is so important to us that we'll give you 5% off the price of your next G Adventures trip if your feedback is completed on-line within 30 days of finishing your trip. Your tour evaluation will be e-mailed to you 24 hours after the conclusion of your trip. If you do not receive the tour evaluation link in the days after your tour has finished, please drop us a line at customersolutions@gadventures.com and we will send it on to you.

  • Newsletter

    Our adventure travel e-newsletter is full of travel news, trip information, interesting stories and contests. To avoid missing out on special offers and updates from G Adventures, subscribe at www.gadventures.com
    ewsletters/




    Stay current on how our company invests in our global community through our foundation – Planeterra. Sign up for Planeterra's monthly news to learn more about how to give back and support the people and places we love to visit.

  • Minimum Age

    Minimum age of 15 years for this trip.

  • International Flights

    Check-in times and baggage allowances
    estrictions vary by airline and can change at any time. For the most up-to-date information for your flight, please contact your airline. We recommend checking in online in advance to avoid potential delays at the airport.

  • Group Leader

    CEO (Chief Experience Officer), certified driver/guide, experienced gorilla trackers, local guides.

  • How long has the tour company been trading?

    G Adventures was established in 1990

  • Do you operate a “single share” option and how does it work?

    Most of our trips do not have a single supplement. This means that the accommodation is on a twin share basis and, if travelling on your own, you will be sharing a room with another G Adventures traveller of the same sex. Some tours have an optional single supplement. An optional service that may be available is called "My Own Room". This service allows solo travellers to request their own room.

  • Can I join the tour once it has departed?

    It's extremely difficult if not impossible to join a tour after it has begun. It is possible to leave a tour early however you will be responsible for your own arrangements from the moment you decide to leave the tour. You would also be responsible for all costs associated with joining a tour late or leaving one early. If you feel this may be necessary, please consult us before you book.

  • What policies are in place for Covid-19?

    https://www.gadventures.com/travel-with-confidence/

  • What Ethical Travel credentials does the tour company have?

    https://www.gadventures.com/about-us/core-values/

Reviews of this operator

Lynsey M, UK  

Rio de Janeiro to Buenos Aires: Waterfalls & White Sands

08-Nov-2021

This tour was very good. I would reccomend it. It is great to see the difference in the three countries, Iguassu Falls definitely a highlight on my whole South America trip.

Connie McKain Albright  

Galapagos

10-Jan-2023

This was our first trip with G Adventures. We took the 8 day trip around Galapagos on their ship Yolita II. The guide, Adrienne, was knowledgeable and very pleasant. Each day had a variety of activities to choose from so you could fill your day or pick and choose what you wanted to do. The guide knew where to look for various animals so we saw an abundance of wildlife - lots of different sea birds, sea lions, a few kinds of iguanas, and many kinds of fishes. The only negative, and it's not G Adventures fault, is that the little ship rocks and rolls and night which can make sleeping challenging.

Trustpilot
Tina. G, Canada  

DAK

08-Nov-2021

The tour was great! Our guide Peter was very knowledgeable and gave us just the right amount of information about the sights and animals we were seeing. He was also very personable and had a great sense of humour. Our cook was great as well! They were both flexible and accomodated our requests to spend longer looking at some animals, to visit craft markets, etc. The lodge accommodations both inside and outside Kruger National Park were fantastic.

Sandra Salter  

I have taken four trips with G…

18-Dec-2022

I have taken four trips with G Adventures. The Guides have been so knowledgeable and friendly. Each trip has been thoroughly planned. The trips have been once in a lifetime experiences.

Trustpilot
Jil S, Canada  

Costa Rica Adventure

08-Nov-2021

The tour was excellent! I think there was something for everyone on this tour... lots of hiking and nature walks for nature lovers, a plethora of optional activities for the adventurous and lots of downtime for the ones who just want to relax. I loved it!

Fergus Lawrence Park   Uk

Sailing Thailand - Phuket to Phuket

18-Dec-2023

Fantastic trip overall with very efficient staff on board. Fantastic food throughout. Deluxe cabin was disappointing and not as advertised and many problems with the air conditioning in our cabin meant we had 2 sleepless nights.

Fergus Lawrence Park   Uk

Sailing Thailand - Phuket to Phuket

18-Dec-2023

Fantastic trip overall with very efficient staff on board. Fantastic food throughout. Deluxe cabin was disappointing and not as advertised and many problems with the air conditioning in our cabin meant we had 2 sleepless nights.

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Prices last published on 22-Dec-2024

Book with Confidence

  • Free Date Changes

    G Adventures allows you to make 10 free date changes, as long as the change is made at least 0 days before the start of the tour.

  • Low Deposit

    G Adventures requires a minimum deposit of 350 USD per person or the full booking value, whichever is less, with the final balance not due until 60 days before departure.

  • Cancellation Policy

    We don't charge a cancellation fee, here is a summary of g adventures charges.

    Up to 60 days before tour starts: Forfeit 100% of deposit.

    At 59 days before tour starts: Forfeit 50% of booking price.

    At 29 days before tour starts: Forfeit 100% of booking price.

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